Pharmacotherapy of PTSD: Current Status and Controversies.

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common psychiatric disorder in populations exposed to trauma, and it is among the most functionally-impairing, similar in scope to that observed in mood disorders. Recent years have seen many treatment studies assessing effi cacy of diverse pharmacotherapies for PTSD. This article reviews the established, evidence-based pharmacotherapeutic treatments for PTSD and highlights current recommendations and controversial areas. The article primarily focuses on published randomized clinical trials that tested overall symptom reduction in PTSD compared to placebo. We also briefl y review efforts to target particular symptoms commonly associated with PTSD (eg, sleep disturbance; psychotic symptoms) and at preventing PTSD among populations recently exposed to trauma. Where appropriate, recommendations are made for use of particular agents as fi rst-line pharmacotherapies. To date, there are no validated sensitive and specifi c biomarkers of PTSD that can 1. Review the evidence from the literature for the pharmacologic treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).